Speaking of Faith in a Time of a Division with Kristofer

Speaking of Faith in a Time of a Division

In today’s reflection, Kristofer ponders what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and let our lives speak the Good News of God’s love. But what about those times when you are actually called to give a verbal account of what’s in your heart and mind? What would you say about what God is doing in your life? The appointed Gospel passage for today in Matthew (below) tells us not to worry about what we will speak because God will give us the words we need. In fact, the Spirit will speak through us. Can you recall a time in which God, in a moment of need, gave you the words to speak in truth and love? What impact did that have on you and on those involved?

Kristofer also refers in the video to this time we are in as being called the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. While we did not recognize it formally at St. Francis, this week recognizes the importance of the Ecumenical Movement. This week-long celebration of unity was established over 100 years ago, and you can learn more about that story through the World Council of Churches site: https://www.oikoumene.org/resources/week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity

Jesus said to the twelve, "See, I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of them, for they will hand you over to councils and flog you in their synagogues; and you will be dragged before governors and kings because of me, as a testimony to them and the Gentiles. When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you at that time; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you (NRSV, Matt. 10: 16-21).

Here are the entirety of the appointed readings for the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, which concludes the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: https://www.lectionarypage.net/YearABC/HolyDays/ConvPaul.html